Laminate Bathroom Countertops

When it’s time to replace your cracking, mildew-laced old-school countertop, you have a lot of choices. Making your choice on the basis of functionality, aesthetics, maintenance and cost will help. Here is an overview of one of the most popular types of bathroom countertop materials—laminate countertop.

Laminate is among the most popular types of bathroom countertop material for one major reason—cost. Laminate is by far the least expensive of countertop materials, and installation is fairly simple. Laminate countertops are available at nearly any major home improvement center. Like its name suggest, laminate countertops are essentially a large piece of laminated plastic glued to a base. The base material usually consists of particleboard or plywood. Laminate countertops are often known by the brand name, Formica.

Laminate is popular not only because of its low cost, but also its wide array of colors, styles and patterns. Many laminate producers replicate the look and feel of more expensive countertop varieties like granite, slate, quartz or other stone. Laminate countertops are not without serious drawbacks, however. They can easily crack, chip and break. In addition, laminate is not a heat-resistant product and can melt or singe.

Contents

When it’s time to replace your cracking, mildew-laced old-school countertop, you have a lot of choices. Making your choice on the basis of functionality, aesthetics, maintenance and cost will help. Here is an overview of one of the most popular types of bathroom countertop materials —the laminate countertop.

Costs

The cost of a custom laminate countertop is between $7 and $30 per square foot depending on the color and style, or $40-$65 if you want to have it professionally installed. Sheet laminate, on the other hand, costs $30-$150 per sheet depending on the size, color and style. Get a price quote for a breakdown of installation costs.

Pros

Laminate is the least expensive countertop material available.

It is easy to install and can be purchased at any major home improvement store.

Laminate comes in a wide array of colors and styles.

Cons

It is not heat-resistant and can melt or singe.

Many don’t like the inexpensive look of laminate.

Laminate can easily chip, crack and break.

Durability

The durability of laminate bathroom countertops depends on the wear and tear that your space receives. They are relatively scratch-resistant but will chip easily. In addition, laminate can be damaged by heavy moisture, e.g. standing pools of water. Proper maintenance is essential for the longevity of your laminate countertops.

Maintenance

If you want to keep your laminate countertops looking great for years to come, it’s important to clean them regularly. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or materials (steel wool, etc.) that can damage the surface of the countertop. Wipe them down with a soft sponge or cloth and soap, making sure to dry the surface afterwards.

Common Questions and Answers

What are the style options available with laminate countertops?

Laminate comes in a wide array of colors, styles and patterns. Many laminate producers replicate the look and feel of more expensive countertop varieties like granite, slate,

What is laminate made out of?

Laminate countertops are essentially a large piece of laminated plastic glued to a base. The base material usually consists of particleboard or plywood.

History

Laminate was first created in the early 1900s by a group of engineers from the Westinghouse Company. The group later left and joined the Formica Company, where they began using the material for electronic devices. It wasn’t until after WWII that laminate was used for countertops.